ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Kim Roney won Asheville’s mayoral election Tuesday, Nov. 3, defeating incumbent Mayor Esther Manheimer.
With 22 of the 40 precincts reporting, Roney had 21,957 votes, or 57%, compared with 16,043 votes, or 41.95% for Manheimer, according to unofficial election results.
“I’m honored to be the next mayor of Asheville,” Roney said to a standing ovation and cheers at her watch party at The Grey Eagle. “Working class people are going to prove not only can we win…we can lead.”
The election pitted Manheimer, who has served as mayor since 2013, against Roney, a City Council member who campaigned on making city government more transparent and giving residents a greater voice in decisions.
Both candidates made housing affordability, public safety and Asheville’s continued recovery from Tropical Storm Helene central issues in their campaigns. But they offered different approaches to addressing those challenges.
Manheimer pointed to her experience leading the city and working with state and federal officials to secure recovery funding. She also emphasized affordable housing, neighborhood improvements and support for police, firefighters and other emergency responders.
Roney called for more public involvement in city decisions, particularly when it comes to spending priorities and how City Council conducts its business. She argued that more discussion should take place in public rather than behind the scenes.
The candidates also differed over how council members should communicate before public meetings. Manheimer said conversations with colleagues, staff and residents are necessary to develop sound policies, while Roney raised concerns about discussions that could leave the public out of the decision-making process.
The race came as Asheville continued rebuilding from Helene while facing concerns about the cost of living, homelessness, public safety and the city’s long-term financial outlook.
The results are unofficial until certified by the Buncombe County Board of Elections.